Recycling is the new black, so if you need new ski equipment, why not buy used skis. New ski equipment can be really expensive, so it might be wise to buy used skis to save money or to get skis of better quality. When you buy used skis, you should of course look at the all-important factor: the condition of the skis. In this article, you will get good advice on what to look for regarding the condition of the skis.
There are four parts of the skis that will be the focus of this article: edge, base, top layer, and bindings. These are the key elements of a good ski, and what affects both performance and value. The ski binding is included in our discussion because the bindings are usually mounted on and included in a used ski purchase.
Edges
The edge of a ski is the metal strips mounted on the sides of the ski. Check the ski edge for sharpness and rust. Check that the edges are straight and how much edge is left on the skis. The process of tuning skis includes grinding the edges. If skis have been tuned a lot, the edges can become too thin and limit the amount of future tuning. Also, check if the edges have the same thickness; if not, it may indicate previous damage.
Base
The base of the ski is the area at the bottom of the ski that runs on the snow. The base of a ski gets scratches and grooves when the ski comes into contact with rough and hard objects such as rocks and ice. Scratches and chips in the base of the ski can be easily removed when they are small and only on the surface. It is best if long scratches are not close to the edge of the ski. Do not buy used skis with deep chips that go into the core of the ski. Place the two skis base-to-base and slide them against each other. They should ideally be completely smooth. If you notice a clicking sound when the edges slide over each other, you may need to have the base ground to get a smooth surface.
The Top Layer
The top layer (top sheet and ski cap) of a ski is where the bindings are mounted, and your feet are attached to the ski. Scratches are common in the top layer. They don't mean much, but as mentioned above, regarding deep chips, they are also a no-go in the top layer. Inspect each ski for delamination of the top layer (separation of the layers). Look closely around the tail and tip, as this is often where delamination occurs.
Ski Bindings
The ski binding is the mechanical device that holds the boot on the ski. Every year, ski binding manufacturers release a list of safe bindings. Your goal is to buy used skis with bindings that are on the list, as ski shops typically will only service you if your bindings are on the list. Look for any loose parts, cracks, or loose mounting screws. Check that the spring settings, front and back, are the same. If the settings are different, it may be a sign that a spring is worn out and releases too easily.
With this advice, you are ready to buy your first used skis!
